The Hysterectomy and Chronic Pelvic Pain

Often because of the lack of understanding behind chronic pelvic pain, a hysterectomy is performed in hopes of eliminating said pain. The problem is that this can also to rectify the problem. In her latest blog post, “Hysterectomy for chronic pelvic pain? Ask these 7 questions first,” Dr. Jen Gunter, board certified in OB/GYN and pain medicine, discusses some questions to ask yourself to see if a hysterectomy is really necessary. For starters, have you checked for Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Have you seen a pelvic floor physical therapist?

Before undergoing such a serious surgery, it’s important to make sure there are no other possible alternatives, that your pain could not have another cause. Imagine undergoing a hysterectomy and discovering your pain was still there? It can be traumatizing, and to save yourself the trouble, give Gunter’s list a good read-through, link above. She’s a smart cookie, and we like her up-front style. And of course, come talk to us if you have any concerns about your chronic pelvic pain–physical therapy can be a tremendous help, and we’re glad to help ease your pain!